Roofing system and method

ABSTRACT

A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/166,378, filed Jun. 22, 2011, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/727,726 filed Mar. 19, 2010, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/161,668filed Mar. 19, 2009, the entire contents of all of which are hereinincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to roofing systems and roof-mountedfixtures and methods for assembling and installing the same.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a roofing system including a roofsubstrate and flashing supportable on the roof substrate and including atop surface spaced from the roof substrate, a bottom surface, and anoutwardly extending projection having a concave interior side. Theflashing can define an aperture extending through the projection betweenthe top surface and the bottom surface. The roofing system can alsoinclude a seal for inhibiting fluid entry through the aperture. The sealcan extend through the aperture such that the seal contacts at least aportion of the top surface of the flashing and at least a portion of thebottom surface of the flashing. The seal can be conformable with theconcave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantiallyaligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can besupportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receiveat least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastenercan extend through the mounting bracket aperture, the seal aperture, andthe flashing aperture and can be operable to inhibit fluid flow throughthe flashing aperture.

In addition, the present invention provides a roofing system including aroof substrate and flashing supportable on the roof substrate. Theflashing can include a top surface spaced from the roof substrate, abottom surface, an outwardly extending projection having a concaveinterior side and an exterior side forming a frustoconical end, anaperture extending through the projection between the top surface andthe bottom surface, and a rim extending outwardly from the flashing andaround an outer perimeter of the flashing projection. The roofing systemcan also include a moisture vent communicating between an interior ofthe rim and an exterior and a mounting bracket supportable on theflashing and defining an aperture sized to receive at least a portion ofthe projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracketaperture and the flashing aperture to secure the flashing and mountingbracket to the roof substrate.

The present invention also provides a roofing system including a roofsubstrate and flashing supportable on the roof substrate. The flashingcan include a top surface spaced from the roof substrate, a bottomsurface, an outwardly extending projection having a concave interiorside, and an aperture extending through the projection between the topsurface and the bottom surface. A mounting bracket can be supportable onthe flashing and define an aperture sized to receive at least a portionof the projection. A recess can extend into one of the top surface ofthe flashing adjacent to the flashing aperture and a bottom surface ofthe mounting bracket adjacent to the mounting bracket aperture. At leastone of the mounting bracket and the top surface of the flashing candefine a moisture vent communicating between the recess and an exteriorof the top surface of the flashing. A fastener can extend through themounting bracket aperture and the flashing aperture to secure theflashing and mounting bracket to the roof substrate.

In addition, the present invention provides a roofing system including aroof substrate and flashing supportable on the roof substrate. Theflashing can include a top surface spaced from the roof substrate, abottom surface, an outwardly extending projection having a concaveinterior side and an exterior side forming a frustoconical end, and anaperture extending through the projection and communicating between thetop and bottom surfaces. A mounting bracket can be supportable on theflashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portionof the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracketaperture and the flashing aperture. The projection can be operable toinhibit fluid flow into the flashing aperture. One of a snow fence, asolar panel, and an antenna component can be secured to the mountingbracket and supported on the roof substrate.

The present invention also provides a roofing system including a roofsubstrate and a flexible membrane secured to the roof substrate. Theroofing system also includes a rigid base positionable between the roofsubstrate and the flexible membrane and including a top surface spacedfrom the roof substrate and having an outwardly extending projectionhaving an exterior side forming a frustoconical end, a bottom surface,an aperture extending through the projection and communicating betweenthe top and bottom surfaces, and a tooth extending outwardly from thebottom surface and being engageable with the substrate. The roofingsystem can also include a mounting bracket supportable on the flexiblemembrane and defining an aperture sized to receive at least a portion ofthe projection, a fastener extending through the mounting bracketaperture and the base aperture, and one of a snow fence, a solar panel,and an antenna component secured to the mounting bracket and supportedon the roof substrate

Some embodiments of the present invention include a roof mounting systemhaving a roof substrate, flashing supportable on the roof substrate andincluding a top surface spaced from the roof substrate, a bottomsurface, and an outwardly extending projection having a concave interiorside. The flashing defines an aperture extending through the projectionbetween the top surface and the bottom surface. A seal inhibits fluidentry through the aperture, and the seal extends through the aperturesuch that the seal contacts at least a portion of the top surface of theflashing and at least a portion of the bottom surface of the flashing.The seal is conformable with the concave interior side and defines aseal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. Amounting bracket is supportable on the flashing and defines an aperturesized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and theprojection. A fastener extends through the mounting bracket aperture,the seal aperture, and the flashing aperture, such that the seal isoperable to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.

Some embodiments of the present invention include a roof mounting systemhaving a roof substrate, flashing secured to the roof substrate. Theflashing includes a first projection and a second projection, the secondprojection has a substantially frustoconical shape, and the flashingdefines a flashing aperture extending through the second projection. Arigid base is positionable between the roof substrate and the flashingand includes a top surface spaced from the roof substrate and having anoutwardly extending projection having an exterior side forming afrustoconical end, a bottom surface, an aperture extending through theprojection and communicating between the top and bottom surfaces, and atooth extending outwardly from the bottom surface and being engeablewith the substrate. A mounting bracket is supportable on the flashingand defines an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of theprojection, and a fastener extends through the mounting bracketaperture, the projection aperture, and the flashing aperture. Theprojection is operable to inhibit fluid flow through the projectionaperture.

Some embodiments of the present invention include a roof mounting systemhaving a roof bracket defining a bracket aperture, the bracket aperturehas a generally frustoconical shape, and flashing supportable on theroof substrate and including a top surface spaced from the roofsubstrate, a bottom surface, and an outwardly extending projectionhaving a concave interior side. The flashing defines an apertureextending through the projection between the top surface and the bottomsurface. A seal has a generally frustoconical shape and defines a sealaperture extending therethrough. A fastener is sized to extend throughthe bracket aperture, the flashing aperture and the seal aperture tocouple the roof bracket, flashing and seal to a roof surface. Thefastener is positioned to press the roof bracket into abutment with theflashing protrusion and the seal to inhibit flow of fluid through atleast one of the bracket aperture, the flashing aperture and the sealaperture.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration ofthe detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of a roofing system according to some embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of the roofing system of FIG. 1, takenalong line A-A of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 is a top view of flashing from the roofing system shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a seal for use with the flashing shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 6A is a front view of an alternate seal for use with the flashingshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7A is a bottom perspective view of the seal shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the seal shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8A is a top perspective view of the seal shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the flashing of FIG. 2 with the seal shown inFIG. 6 installed in the aperture.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the flashing and seal shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a front view of the flashing and seal shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the flashing and seal shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 is a side view of a bracket for use with the flashing and seal.

FIG. 13A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the bracket.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 14A is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 15 is a top view of an assembly including the flashing, the seal,the bracket and a fastener.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 20 is a top view of a second embodiment of flashing according tothe present invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 24 is a top view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20 including sealsinstalled in the flashing apertures.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the flashing and seals shown in FIG.24.

FIG. 26 is a front view of the flashing and seals shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 is a side view of the flashing and seals shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is a side view of a bracket for use with the flashing and sealsshown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 28A is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the bracket.

FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 29A is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 28A.

FIG. 30 is a top view of an assembly including the flashing, the seals,the bracket and two fasteners.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 33 is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 35 is a top view of a third embodiment of flashing including oneaperture.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 37 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 38 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35 includingthe seal shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 40 is a side view of a bracket for use with the flashing and sealshown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 41 is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a bottom perspective view of the bracket shown in FIG. 40.

FIG. 43 is a top view of a fourth embodiment of flashing including oneaperture.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 43.

FIG. 45 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 43.

FIG. 46 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 43.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an assembly including the flashingshown in FIG. 43 and a bracket.

FIG. 48 is a top perspective view of a bracket including a membraneexploded off of the bracket for clarity.

FIG. 49 is a bottom perspective of the bracket and membrane of FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is an exploded view of another roofing system embodiment.

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 50, taken along line 51-51 ofFIG. 50.

FIG. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view of a roofing system accordingto another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 53 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roofing system of FIG.52 with a flashing arrangement according to an alternate embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it isto be understood that the invention is not limited in its application tothe details of construction and the arrangement of components set forthin the following description or illustrated in the following drawings.The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced orof being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood thatthe phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescription and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of“including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein ismeant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereofas well as additional items.

Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,”“supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly andencompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, andcouplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted tophysical or mechanical connections or couplings.

Also, it is to be understood that phraseology and terminology usedherein with reference to device or element orientation (such as, forexample, terms like “central,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” andthe like) are only used to simplify description of the presentinvention, and do not alone indicate or imply that the device or elementreferred to must have a particular orientation. In addition, terms suchas “first” and “second” are used herein for purposes of description andare not intended to indicate or imply relative importance orsignificance.

FIGS. 1 and 1A show a roofing system 10 including a number of rafters orbeams 12, a roof substrate 14 (e.g., tarpaper, plywood or other deckingmaterial, insulation, and the like) supported on the rafters 12,flashing 16 extending across the substrate 14 (i.e., placed immediatelyadjacent an upper surface of the substrate 14 or supported on one ormore intermediate layers of roofing or sealing material, which in turnare placed on the substrate 14), a seal 18, a mounting bracket 20 and atleast one fastener 22 operable to connect the bracket 20 to the roofsubstrate 14 and the flashing 16. In the illustrated embodiment, theroofing system 10 includes a washer 21 positioned between the mountingbracket 20 and the fastener 22. In some embodiments, the washer 21 canbe a spring washer, a compression lock washer, a sealing ring or thelike. In other embodiments, the washer 21 can be omitted.

The bracket 20 is operable to support any of a variety of roof-mountedassemblies, such as snow guards, snow fences, solar panels, an antenna,signs, billboards, or any other roof-mountable assemblies. Someroof-mounted fixtures are described in detail in commonly-assigned U.S.Pat. No. 5,609,326, filed Jun. 16, 1995, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,526,701,filed Dec. 6, 2000, the contents of both of which are hereinincorporated by reference. Depending on one or more of the geographiclocation, anticipated quantity and type of precipitation, andanticipated roof and wind loading, the roofing system 10 can include anyof a variety of flashing, seal and bracket arrangements 20, as will bediscussed below.

Prior to installation of the roofing system 10, apertures 24 are drilledor otherwise created in the rafters 12 and/or substrate 14. Theillustrated embodiment shows apertures 24 in the substrate 14. Theroofing system 10 inhibits leakage of fluids through the flashing 16,and, in some embodiments, may also or alternately inhibit leakage offluids beyond the flashing to portions of the substrate 14 or areasbelow the substrate 14. The roofing system 10 can be utilized on any ofa variety of roof types, such as slate roofs, membrane roofs, aluminumroofs, standing seam roofs, tile roofs, shingle roofs, and the like.

A first embodiment of flashing 16 for the roofing system 10 isillustrated in FIGS. 2-5. The flashing 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 2-5extends substantially along a plane but includes an upwardly extendingprotrusion, such as the illustrated projection 30 that tapers upward,out of the plane. The upwardly extending projection 30 has a firstdiameter d1 in the plane, and a second diameter d2 in a second planethat is substantially parallel to but spaced from the plane. The seconddiameter d2 is less than the first diameter d1, to form a truncated coneor frustoconical shape. In other embodiments, the projections 30 canhave other shapes and configurations, corresponding to the shape of anunderside of an associated mounting bracket 20.

As best illustrated in FIG. 1A, the projection 30 defines a concaveinterior side 26, an exterior side 27 and a frustoconical end 28. Asused herein, frustoconical includes cones with rounded, flat, non-flator nearly flat upper portions and truncated cones with rounded, flat,non-flat or nearly flat upper portions. As mentioned above, theprojections 30 can have a number of different shapes and configurations.Similarly, in some embodiments, the concave interior side 26 of theprojection 30 may have a number of different shapes and configurations,including but not limited to configurations in which the arch providedby the interior side 26 does not include a uniform radius.

The concave interior side 26 and the flashing 16 define a spacetherebetween. A seal can be positioned within the space to at leastpartially fill the space to further inhibit leakage through the aperture24. The seal has been omitted from FIG. 1A for clarity, but isillustrated and described in other figures. Any of the seals shown ordescribed herein can be utilized with the roofing system shown in FIGS.1 and 1A.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2-5, the upwardly extending projection30 defines an aperture 32 positioned substantially in the second plane.The illustrated upwardly extending projection 30 and aperture 32 aresubstantially circular, but in other embodiments, can be square,D-shaped, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular, or other regular orirregular shapes. The illustrated aperture 32 is substantially centeredon the upwardly extending projection 30, but other, non-centeredembodiments are possible. The flashing 16 has a first side 34 and asecond side 36 opposite the first side 34. The first side 34 and thesecond side 36 are substantially planar, apart from the projection 30.

In some embodiments, the aperture 32 is sized to receive a seal 18therethrough. The seal 18 can extend through the flashing 16, such thatthe seal 18 engages or contacts the first side 34 of the flashing 16 andthe second side 36 of the flashing 16. The illustrated seal 18 includesa first end portion 40 that forms a substantially circular disk having aplanar end surface 41 and a second end portion 42 that forms asubstantially circular disk having a planar end surface 43 substantiallyparallel to the planar end surface 41. The illustrated seal 18 alsodefines a stem, such as the illustrated tapered central portion 44,extending between the first end portion 40 and the second end portion42. The tapered central portion 44 has a first diameter d3 adjacent tothe planar end surface 41 and a second diameter d4 adjacent to theplanar end surface 43. The first diameter d3 is less than the seconddiameter d4. The diameter of the tapered central portion 44 increasesfrom the first diameter d3 to the second diameter d4 substantiallylinearly to form a taper along a substantially constant angle. The seal18 has a substantially cylindrical overall shape, with a notch 45 cutout between the first end portion 40 and the second end portion 42 alongthe tapered central portion 44. The notch 45 is defined by a taperedsurface 46 extending between the first and second end portions 40, 42.In the illustrated embodiment, the second diameter d4 is approximatelyequal to the diameter of the first end portion 40 and the diameter ofthe second end portion 42.

The illustrated seal 18 defines a substantially cylindrical aperture 48that is substantially centrally located in the seal 18. The aperture 48extends normal to the outside surfaces of the first and second endportions 40, 42 and parallel to the substantially cylindrical overallshape of the seal 18, in the illustrated embodiment. The aperture 48 hasa smaller diameter than the seal first diameter d3, as shown in FIG. 7,so that the seal 18 has an adequate thickness between the first andsecond end portions 40, 42. The seal 18 can be made from any suitableresilient sealing or electromeric material, such as polymers, rubbers,plastics, and the like.

The seal 18 is insertable into the aperture 32 to couple the seal 18 tothe flashing 16, as illustrated in FIGS. 9-12. The notch 45 is sized toreceive the flashing 16 therein. The seal 18 is operable to form acompression seal by being held against the concave interior side 26 ofthe flashing 16. The seal 18 can be factory-installed in the flashingaperture 32 or can be inserted by on-site at a customer's building. Afixture for a punch press can be sized to install the seals 18 into therespective apertures 32. In some embodiments, the punch press can beutilized to form the projection 30 and the aperture 32 in flashing 16,at the same time. In some embodiments, the punch press can form theprojection 30 and the aperture 32 in the flashing 16 and then insert theseal 18 into the aperture 32, either during the same operation or duringa separate operation.

In some embodiments, a hand tool can be utilized to insert the seal 18into the aperture 32. This tool can be operated by a single user topress or otherwise urge the first end portion 40 through the aperture32, such that the projection 30 contacts the tapered surface 46 of thetapered central portion 44. The tool can include one or more fingers toengage the seal 18 and pull or push the seal 18 through the aperture 32.The fingers can be inserted through the aperture 32 from the flashingfirst side 34 toward the flashing second side 36. The fingers can thensqueeze or pinch the first end portion 40 to temporarily reduce thediameter of the first end portion 40. In another embodiment, the fingerscan grasp a portion of the first end portion 40. The first end portion40 is then pulled through the aperture 32. The seal 18 is resilient,such that the seal 18 returns to its previous shape and size after beinginserted into the aperture 32.

An alternate seal 18A is illustrated in FIGS. 6A-8A. The seal 18A, likeseal 18 can extend through the flashing 16 such that the seal 18Aengages or contacts the first side 34 of the flashing 16 and the secondside 36 of the flashing 16. The illustrated seal 18A includes a firstend portion 40A and a second end portion 42A, spaced from the first endportion 40A. The first end portion 40A is tapered from a first diameterdA1 outward to a second diameter dA2, which is greater than the firstdiameter dA1. The first end portion 40A at the first diameter dA1 has asubstantially planar end surface 41A. The illustrated first end portion40A tapers along a constant slope, but in other embodiments, tapers ofvarying slope are possible. The second end portion 42A is tapered from athird diameter dA3 inward to a location having a diameter which is lessthan the third diameter dA3. The second end portion 42A at the thirddiameter dA3 has a substantially planar end surface 43A, which issubstantially parallel to the planar end surface 41A, as shown in FIG.6A. The illustrated second end portion 42A tapers along a constantslope, but in other embodiments, tapers of varying slope are possible.In the illustrated embodiment, the slope of the first end portion 40A issubstantially identical to the slope of the second end portion 42A. Inother embodiments, the slope of the first end portion 40A can be greateror less than the slope of the second end portion 42A.

The seal 18A includes a central portion 44A that is positioned betweenthe first end portion 40A and the second end portion 42A. The centralportion 44A is substantially disk-shaped and has a substantiallyconstant diameter. In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion44A has a diameter equal to the second diameter dA2. The central portion44A extends between the first end portion 40A and the second end portion42A and defines a notch 45A therebetween. The notch 45A permits thefirst end portion 40A to be compressed without compressing the secondend portion 42A.

Although the illustrated seal 18A does not include an aperture, the seal18A can define a substantially cylindrical aperture that issubstantially centrally located in the seal 18A, similar to the aperture48 shown in seal 18. The aperture extends normal to the planar endsurfaces of the first and second end portions 40A, 42A, in theillustrated embodiment. The aperture can have a smaller diameter thanthe seal first diameter dA1, so that the seal 18A has an adequatethickness between the first and second end portions 40A, 42A. In someembodiments, the aperture can have a diameter equal to the dA1, suchthat the first end portion 40A tapers upward toward the aperture. Insome such embodiments, the aperture can be formed only when a fasteneris inserted through the flashing 16 and the seal 18A during installationof the roofing system 10. In other embodiments, the aperture can beformed in the seal prior to assembly of the roofing system 10. The seal18A, like seal 18, can be made from any suitable resilient sealingmaterial, such as polymers, rubbers, and the like.

The seal 18A is insertable into the aperture 32 in the flashing 16 tocouple the seal 18A to the flashing 16. When installed, the first endportion 40A extends through the aperture 32, such that the flashing 16is positioned between the first end portion 40A and the second endportion 42A. The notch 45A is sized to receive the flashing 16 therein.

A bracket, such as the bracket 20 illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, can becoupled to the seal 18 and flashing 16. The illustrated bracket 20 isgenerally z-shaped and includes an elongate body portion 52 having afirst end 54 and a second end 56 spaced from the first end 54. A firstflange 58 is coupled to the first end 54 and extends substantiallyperpendicular to the elongate body portion 52 in a first direction. Asecond flange 60 is coupled to the second end 56 and extendssubstantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 52 in a seconddirection, opposite the first direction. The first flange 58 defines anaperture 62 extending substantially parallel to the elongate bodyportion 52. The illustrated aperture 62 is substantially ovular, butother shapes, such as circular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, and thelike are possible. The aperture 62 is sized to receive a fastener,protrusion, or the like therethrough. The ovular shape of the aperture62 permits flexibility and slight relative movement between the bracket20 and the fastener, projection or the like, when installed.

The second flange 60 of the bracket 20 defines an aperture 64 thatincludes a first aperture portion 64 a and a second aperture portion 64b. The first aperture portion 64 a has a substantially cylindrical shapeand defines a first diameter d5. The second aperture portion 64 b has asubstantially cylindrical shape and defines a second diameter d6 that isless than the first diameter d5. The first aperture portion 64 a issized to receive the seal first end portion 40. The second apertureportion 64 b is sized to be smaller than the seal first end portion 40to permit pre-loading of the seal 18, to thereby seal the aperture 64with the seal 18.

An alternate embodiment of the bracket 20A is shown in FIGS. 13A and14A. The bracket 20A differs from the bracket 20 in that the secondflange 60A includes an aperture 66. The aperture 66 includes a firstaperture portion 66 a and a second aperture portion 66 b. The firstaperture portion 66 a has a substantially constant diameter da. Thesecond aperture portion 66 b has a variable, tapering diameter startingat diameter db, which is less than da and tapering inward to diameterdc. Diameter dc is less than either da or db. The second apertureportion 66 b has a substantially constant slope at which the diameterchanges between db and dc. In some embodiments, the aperture 66 istapered along the entire distance between da and dc. In otherembodiments, diameters da and db are substantially equal. In still otherembodiments, the slope of the tapered portion 66 b is greater or lessthan the illustrated slope. In yet other embodiments, the relativeheights of the first aperture portion 66 a and the second apertureportion 66 b are variable.

The projection 30 in the flashing 16 is sized to receive the second endportion 42A, as discussed above. The aperture 66 is sized to receive theseal 18A and at least partially pre-load the seal 18A to enhance theseal between the seal 18 and the bracket 20A. In some embodiments, adifferently shaped seal can be utilized. One such seal 18A isillustrated in FIGS. 6A and 7A. The seal 18A is sized to substantiallymate with the aperture 66, such that the aperture 66 can slightlypre-load the seal 18A. The first aperture portion 66 a is sized toreceive the central portion 44A, such that da is substantially equal toor slightly less than dA2. In some embodiments, the central portion 44Acan be slightly tapered to permit insertion into the first apertureportion 66 a when da is slightly less than dA2. The aperture portion 66b is sized to receive the first end portion 40A, such that dc issubstantially equal to or slightly less than dA1, and db issubstantially equal to or slightly less than dA2. In embodiments wheredc and db are slightly less than dA1 and dA2, respectfully, slightpre-loading occurs when the seal 18A is pressed into the aperture 66. Inembodiments where dc and db are substantially equal to dA1 and dA2,respectfully, the seal 18A can be preloaded by pressing the seal 18Ainto the bracket 20A by use of a fastener and the shape and size of theprojection 30 in the flashing 16.

The seals 18 and 18A can be inserted into either or both apertures 64 or66, and other configurations and arrangements of seals and apertures canbe utilized to achieve the desired seal between the flashing 16 and thebracket 20 or 20A.

One or more fasteners can be used to couple the bracket 20 to the seal18 and flashing 16 to form a roofing assembly. One such assembly 70 isillustrated in FIGS. 15-19 and includes the flashing 16, the seal 18,the bracket 20, one fastener 22, and a washer 72. The washer 72 can be apolymeric compression washer to provide a substantially water-tight sealbetween the fastener 22 and the bracket aperture 64. In someembodiments, the washer 72 can be omitted or can be replaced by ano-ring or an applied sealant, such as caulk. Alternatively or inaddition, the washer 72 can include a stiffening element, such as, forexample, a rigid backing, to provide additional support.

The assembly 70 can be installed on a roof. The fastener 22 can extendthrough the flashing 16, the seal 18, the bracket 20, into the substrate14 and the rafters 12, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A. The washer 72and the seal 18 work together to prevent or inhibit entry of water orother fluid into the aperture 64 or to the rafters 12 and/or substrate14. Even though the illustrated fasteners are bolts, other fasteners,such as screws, studs, nails, and other removable and non-removablefasteners, can be used.

A similar assembly can be formed with the seal 18A and the bracket 20A.This assembly can also include a fastener 22 and a washer 72, asdescribed above. The seals 18, 18A can be used interchangeably withbrackets 20, 20A, and other shapes and arrangements of seals andbrackets are possible.

FIGS. 20-34 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 110according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing system 10 described above in connection with FIGS. 1-19.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-19. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-19 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 110 illustrated in FIGS. 20-34 anddescribed below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 20-34corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments describedabove in connection with of FIGS. 1-19 are numbered in the 100 series ofreference numbers.

The second flashing 116 is substantially in the shape of a rectangularsheet having rounded corners. The flashing 116 extends substantiallyalong a plane but includes a first upwardly extending projection 130that tapers upwardly, out of the plane. The first upwardly extendingprojection 130 has a first diameter d7 in the plane, and a seconddiameter d8 in a second plane that is substantially parallel to butspaced from the plane. The second diameter d8 is less than the firstdiameter d7, to form a truncated cone or frustoconical shape. Thediameters d7 and d8 can be the same as or different than the diametersd1 and d2 of the projection 30 described above.

The primary difference between the roofing system 110 embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 20-34 and the roofing system embodiment 10illustrated in FIGS. 1-19 is that the roofing system 110 includes asecond upwardly extending projection 131 in the flashing 116. The secondupwardly extending projection 131 has a first diameter d9 in the plane,and a second diameter d10 in a second plane that is substantiallyparallel to but spaced from the plane. The second diameter d10 is lessthan the first diameter d9, to form a truncated cone or frustoconicalshape. The diameters d9 and d10 can be the same as or different than thediameters d7 and d8 of the first projection 130 described above.

Each of the upwardly extending projections 130, 131 defines an aperture132, 133 positioned substantially in the second plane. The illustratedprojections 130, 131 are substantially the same size and shape as theprojection 30, but can have different shapes and configurations.Alternatively, each of the projections 130, 131 can have a differentshape or configuration so as to require the corresponding mountingbracket 120 to be installed in a specific desired orientation relativeto the flashing 116. The illustrated upwardly extending projections 130,131 and respective apertures 132, 133 are circular, but in otherembodiments, can be square, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular,or other regular or irregular shapes. The illustrated apertures 132, 133are substantially centered on the respective upwardly extendingprojections 130, 131, but other, non-centered embodiments are possible.The second flashing 116 has a first side 134 and a second side 136opposite the first side 134. The first side 134 and the second side 136are substantially planar apart from the projections 130, 131.

First and second seals 118, 119 can be inserted into respectiveapertures 132, 133, as described above and as illustrated in FIGS.24-27. In other embodiments, a seal similar to seal 18A can be insertedinto the flashing 116. Other aperture 132, 133 and seal configurationsare possible and are considered to be within the scope of the presentinvention. The seals 118, 119 can be inserted into the respectiveapertures 132, 133 as discussed above, such as with a punch press, ahand tool, or the like.

A bracket, such as the bracket 120 illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, canbe coupled to the seals 118, 119 and flashing 116. The illustratedbracket 120 is generally z-shaped and includes an elongate body portion152 having a first end 154 and a second end 156 spaced from the firstend 154. A first flange 158 is coupled to the first end 154 and extendssubstantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 152 in a firstdirection. A second flange 160 is coupled to the second end 156 andextends substantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 152 ina second direction, opposite the first direction. The first flange 158defines a pair of apertures 162, 163 extending substantially parallel tothe elongate body portion 152. The illustrated apertures 162, 163 aresubstantially ovular, but other shapes, such as circular, square,rectangular, hexagonal, and the like are possible. The apertures 162,163 are sized to receive a fastener, projection, or the liketherethrough. The ovular shape of the apertures 162, 163 permitsflexibility and slight relative movement between the bracket 120 and thefastener, projection or the like, when installed.

The second flange 160 of the bracket 120 defines a first aperture 164that includes a first aperture portion 164 a and a second apertureportion 164 b. The second flange 160 of the bracket further defines asecond aperture 165 that includes a first aperture portion 165 a and asecond aperture portion 165 b. The first aperture portions 164 a, 165 ahave a substantially cylindrical shape and define a first diameter d11.The second aperture portions 164 b, 165 b have a substantiallycylindrical shape and define a second diameter d12 that is less than thefirst diameter d11. The first aperture portions 164 a, 165 a are sizedto receive the seal 118. The second aperture portions 164 b, 165 b aresized to be smaller than the seal 118, to permit pre-loading of the seal118, to thereby seal the aperture 164 with the seal 118.

The apertures 164, 165 can have the same shape and size as aperture 64,or can be larger than or smaller than the aperture 64. First apertureportions 164 a, 165 a can have different diameters to denote properorientation of the bracket 120 on the flashing 116. Other configurationsand arrangement of brackets and apertures are possible and areconsidered to be within the scope of the present invention.

An alternate embodiment of the bracket 120A is shown in FIGS. 28A and29A. The bracket 120A is similar to the bracket 120 shown in FIGS. 28and 29, such that items include the indicator “A” to denote thesimilarity. The bracket 120A differs from the bracket 120 in that thesecond flange 160A includes apertures 166 and 167. The apertures 166,167 have a variable, tapering diameter starting at diameter dd, andtapering inward to diameter de. Diameter dc is less than da. Theapertures 166, 167 have a substantially constant slope at which thediameter changes between da and dc. In some embodiments, the apertures166, 167 are tapered along only a portion of the distance between da anddc. In still other embodiments, the slopes of the respective apertures166, 167 are greater or less than the illustrated slope. The apertures166, 167 can have the same diameters dd, de or can have differentdiameters and/or different slopes.

The apertures 166, 167 are sized to receive a seal similar to seal 18A,illustrated in FIGS. 6A-8A, and at least partially pre-loading the seal18A to enhance the seal between the seal 18 and the bracket 20A. In someembodiments, a differently shaped seal can be utilized. The seals 118,119 or other similar seals can be inserted into either apertures 164,165 or 166, 165. Other configurations and arrangements of seals andapertures can be utilized to achieve the desired seal between theflashing 116 and the bracket 120 or 120A.

One or more fasteners can be used to couple the bracket 120, 120A to theseals 118, 119 and flashing 116 to form a roofing assembly. One suchassembly 170 is illustrated in FIGS. 30-34 and includes the flashing116, the seals 118, 119, the bracket 120, two fasteners 122, 123 and twowashers 172, 173. The washers 172, 173 can be polymeric compressionwashers to provide a substantially water-tight seal between the fastener122, 123 and the bracket apertures 164, 165. In some embodiments, thewashers 172, 173 can be omitted or can be replaced by an o-ring or anapplied sealant, such as caulk.

The assembly 170 can be installed on a roof. The fasteners 122, 123 canextend through the flashing 116, the respective seals 118, 119, thebracket 120, and into rafters or substrate similar to the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A. The washers 172, 173 and the seals 118,119 work together to prevent or inhibit entry of water or other fluidinto the apertures 164, 165 or the rafters 12 and/or substrate 14. Eventhough the illustrated fasteners are bolts, other fasteners, such asscrews, studs, nails, and other acceptable removable and non-removablefasteners, can be used.

The bracket 120 is operable to support any of a variety of roof-mountedfixtures, such as snow guards, snow fences, solar panels, an antenna,signs, billboards, walkways, pipe lines, mechanical units, signage,screens, cabling or any other assembly mountable to a roof. Theinclusion of two projections 130, 131 can be beneficial to inhibitrotation of a bracket 120 while mounted on a roof and/or to define aspecific orientation of a bracket 120 relative to the roof. Otherbracket configurations and arrangements are possible, and theillustrated bracket 120 is provided by way of example only. In someembodiments, bracket 20 can be coupled to only one projection 130, 131,such that the brackets 20 can have different orientations, and theunused projection can be sealed with other structure.

A similar assembly can be formed with the seal 118A, 119A and thebracket 120A. This assembly can also include a pair of fasteners 122,123 and washers 172, 173, as described above. The seals 118, 118A, 119,119A can be used interchangeably with brackets 120, 120A, and othershapes and arrangements of seals and brackets are possible.

FIGS. 35-42 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 210according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems 10, 110 described above in connection with FIGS.1-34. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily uponstructure and features that are different than the embodiments describedabove in connection with FIGS. 1-34. Reference should be made to thedescription above in connection with FIGS. 1-34 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing system 210illustrated in FIGS. 35-42 and described below. Features and elements inthe embodiment of FIGS. 35-42 corresponding to features and elements inthe embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS. 1-34 arenumbered in the 200 series of reference numbers.

A third flashing 216 is illustrated in FIGS. 35-39. The third flashing216 is substantially in the shape of a rectangular sheet having squarecorners. The flashing 216 extends substantially along a plane butincludes a first upwardly extending projection 230 that tapers upwardly,out of the plane. The first upwardly extending projection 230 has afirst diameter d13 in the plane, and a second diameter d14 in a secondplane that is substantially parallel to but spaced from the plane. Thesecond diameter d14 is less than the first diameter d13, to form atruncated cone or frustoconical shape. The diameters d13 and d14 can bethe same as or different than the diameters d1 and d2 of the projection30 described above.

The first upwardly extending projection 230 defines an aperture 232positioned substantially in the second plane. The illustrated upwardlyextending projection 230 and aperture 232 are circular, but in otherembodiments, can be square, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular,or other regular or irregular shapes. The illustrated aperture 232 issubstantially centered on the upwardly extending projection 230, butother, non-centered embodiments are possible. The third flashing 216 hasa first side 234 and a second side 236 opposite the first side 234. Thefirst side 234 and the second side 236 are substantially planar apartfrom the projection 230.

The third flashing 216 also includes a second upwardly extendingprojection 276 extending out of the first plane around a majority of thecircumference of the first projection 230. The second upwardly extendingprojection 276 has a substantially curved shape and forms almost acomplete ring around the first projection 230. The second projection 276forms a channel, slit or other similar narrow aperture or path, such asthe illustrated slit 278. The slit 278 can be oriented vertically belowthe upwardly extending projection 276 to provide a pathway for moistureto move away from the projection 230. Moisture can be moved or drawnaway from the aperture 232 by at least one of wicking, capillary action,surface tension, gravity, and evaporation. In some embodiments, the slit278 is positioned on a downhill side of the roof relative to theaperture 232 to utilize gravity to move fluid away from the projection230. The projection 276 can further direct fluid away from theprojection 230 to inhibit leakage of water into the aperture 232. Insome embodiments, the slit 278 includes a cutout or downwardlyprotruding extension to further move fluid away from the projection 230and aperture 232.

In other embodiments, the first and second projections 230, 276 can beformed together on a second sheet of flashing or other similar material,and the second sheet can then be secured (i.e., welded, brazed,soldered, glued or fastened in another conventional manner) to theflashing 216.

FIG. 39 illustrates a seal 218 inserted into the aperture 232, similarto the embodiments described above for seals 18 and 118. The seal 218can contact both the first side 234 and the second side 236 of theflashing 216. The seal 218 can be inserted into the apertures 232 in anyof the methods described above. The projection 230, aperture 232, andprojection 276 can be formed into the flashing 216 during the sameoperation or by the same machine as when the seal 218 is inserted intothe aperture 232. In other embodiments, the projections 230, 276 andaperture 232 can be formed into the flashing 216 prior to inserting theseal 218 into the aperture 232.

The slit 278 and projection 276 are shown in FIG. 39 more clearly, so asto illustrate the height difference between the flashing plane, theprojection 230 and the projection 276. In the instance that fluid wouldflow over the projection 276 and up the projection 230, seal 218 wouldinhibit the fluid from entering the aperture 232.

The brackets 20, 20A, 120, 120A can be utilized with the embodimentshown in FIGS. 35-42. A bracket 220, as shown in FIGS. 40-42, can bealso or alternatively be utilized with the flashing 216. The bracket 220is generally z-shaped and includes an elongate body portion 252 having afirst end 254 and a second end 256 spaced from the first end 254. Afirst flange 258 is coupled to the first end 254 and extendssubstantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 252 in a firstdirection. A second flange 260 is coupled to the second end 256 andextends substantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 252 ina second direction, opposite the first direction. The first flange 258defines an aperture 262 extending substantially parallel to the elongatebody portion 252. The illustrated aperture 262 is substantially ovular,but other shapes, such as circular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, andthe like are possible. The aperture 262 is sized to receive a fastener,projection, or the like therethrough. The ovular shape of the aperture262 permits flexibility and slight relative movement between the bracket220 and the fastener, projection or the like, when installed.

The second flange 260 of the bracket 220 defines an aperture 268 thatincludes a first aperture portion 268 a, a second aperture portion 268b, and a third aperture portion 268 c. The first aperture portion 268 ahas is substantially ring-shaped and defines a first diameter d15. Thesecond aperture portion 268 b has a substantially cylindrical shape anddefines a second diameter d16 that is less than the first diameter d15.The third aperture portion 286 c is substantially circular and has athird diameter d17 that is less than the first and second diameters d15and d16.

A downwardly protruding annular flange 282 extends between the firstaperture portion 268 a and the second aperture portion 268 b. The firstaperture portion 268 a is sized to receive the second projection 276.The downwardly protruding annular flange 282 is substantially planarwith a distal surface of the second flange 260 of the bracket 220. Thesecond projection 276 and the downwardly protruding annular flange 282substantially mate, such that the downwardly protruding annular flange282 contacts the flashing 216 between the first projection 230 and thesecond projection 276. The second aperture portion 268 b is sized to besmaller than the seal 218 to permit pre-loading of the seal 218, tothereby seal the aperture 268 with the seal 218. The first apertureportion 268 a, the downwardly protruding annular flange 282 and thesecond aperture portion 268 b, projection 230 and seal 218 work togetherto form a labyrinth seal to inhibit entry of fluid into the aperture232.

A notch, channel, recess, or the like, such as the illustrated notch284, can be defined in the bracket second flange 260. The notch 284 isin fluid communication with the first aperture portion 268 a. In theevent that fluid flows between the bracket 220 and the flashing 216, thefluid is permitted to flow out through the slit 278 and/or the notch284. In some embodiments, the slit 278 and notch 284 are substantiallyaligned and positioned on a downhill side of the roof relative to theprojection 230. Gravity is then used to move fluid away from theaperture 232 via the slit 278 and/or notch 284 to further inhibit entryof fluid through aperture 232. Other sizes, shapes, quantities, andconfigurations of notches can be utilized in combination with thebracket 220.

The bracket 220 can be utilized in the above described embodiments inplace of bracket 20 and 120. Alternatively, the brackets 20 and/or 120can include a notch similar to the illustrated notch 284 to provide apath for fluid to flow away from the respective apertures 32, 132, 133.The bracket 220 can further include a tapered portion, similar to thetapered portions of brackets 20A and 120A. The bracket 220 with atapered portion can be utilized in place of brackets 20A and 120A andcan be shaped to mate with seal 18A. In some embodiments, the brackets20A and/or 120A can include a notch similar to the illustrated notch 284to provide a path for fluid flow away from the respective apertures 32,132, 133.

FIGS. 43-47 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 310according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems 10, 110, 210 described above in connection withFIGS. 1-42. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarilyupon structure and features that are different than the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 1-42. Reference should be madeto the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-42 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing system 310illustrated in FIGS. 43-47 and described below. Features and elements inthe embodiment of FIGS. 43-47 corresponding to features and elements inthe embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS. 1-42 arenumbered in the 300 series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 43-47 illustrate a fourth flashing 316 associated with the presentinvention. The fourth flashing 316 is substantially in the shape of arectangular sheet having square corners. The flashing 316 extendssubstantially along a plane but includes an upwardly extendingprojection 330 that tapers upward, out of the plane. The upwardlyextending projection 330 has a first diameter d17 in the plane, and asecond diameter d18 in a second plane that is substantially parallel tobut spaced from the plane. The second diameter d18 is less than thefirst diameter d17, to form a truncated cone or frustoconical shape. Thediameters d17 and d18 can be the same as or different than the diametersd1 and d2 of the projection 30 described above.

The projection 330, like the projections 30, 130, and 230, can define anaperture 332 positioned substantially in the second plane. Theillustrated upwardly extending projection 330 and aperture 332 arecircular, but in other embodiments, can be square, triangular,pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular, or other regular or irregular shapes. Theillustrated aperture 332 is substantially centered on the upwardlyextending projection 330, but other, non-centered embodiments arepossible. The fourth flashing 316 has a first side 334 and a second side336 opposite the first side 334. The first side 334 and the second side336 are substantially planar apart from the projection 330.

The flashing 316 can further define other non-planar features, such as atrench 386 extending circumferentially around the projection 330 and achannel 388, extending between the trench 386 and an edge of theflashing 316. The trench 386 can provide a pathway for fluid around theprojection 330 to inhibit fluid flow up the projection 330, similar tothe function of the projection ridge 276 shown in FIGS. 35-39. Thechannel 388 can provide a pathway for fluid to move away from theprojection 330, similar to the function of the slit 278 shown in FIGS.35-39.

Moisture can be moved or drawn away from the aperture 232 by at leastone of wicking, capillary action, surface tension, gravity, andevaporation. In some embodiments, the channel 388 is positioned on adownhill side of the roof relative to the aperture 332 to utilizegravity to move fluid away from the projection 330. The trench 386 canfurther direct fluid away from the projection 330 to inhibit leakage ofwater into the aperture 232. In some embodiments, the channel 388includes a cutout, scoring or downwardly protruding extension thatextends a portion of the way to the edge of the flashing to further movefluid away from the projection 330 and aperture 332.

Although not specifically illustrated, a seal, such as seal 18, 18A, 118or 218 can be inserted into the aperture 332, similar to the embodimentsdescribed above for seals 18, 18A, 118, and 218. Reference should bemade to the descriptions of the above-described and illustrated seals18, 18A, 118, and 218 for specific details on seals that can be utilizedwith flashing 316. The seal can contact both the first side 334 and thesecond side 336 of the flashing 316. In the instance that fluid wouldflow past the trench 386 and up the projection 330, seal 318 wouldinhibit the fluid from entering the aperture 332.

The seal can be inserted into the apertures 332 using any of the methodsdescribed above. The projection 330, aperture 332, trench 386, andchannel 388 can be formed into the flashing 316 during the sameoperation or by the same machine as when the seal is inserted into theaperture 332. In other embodiments, the projection 330, trench 386,channel 388, and aperture 432 can be formed into the flashing 316 priorto inserting the seal into the aperture 332.

As shown in FIG. 47, a bracket 320 can be coupled to the flashing 316.Although a bracket similar to bracket 20 is shown, any of theabove-described brackets, such as 20, 20A, 120, 120A or 220, can beutilized with the flashing 316. The flashing 316 can define twoprojections and thereby two trenches and a channel joining the trenchesand extending to an edge of the flashing 316. In another embodiment, theflashing 316 can define two projections and two trenches, such that eachtrench joins a separate channel and each channel separately extends toan edge of the flashing 316. Other combinations and configurations ofprojections, slits, trenches and channels can be utilized within thescope of the present invention.

FIGS. 48 and 49 illustrate another embodiment of a bracket 420 accordingto the present invention. This embodiment employs much of the samestructure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments of thebrackets 20, 20A, 120, 120A, 220 or 320 described above in connectionwith FIGS. 1-47. Accordingly, the following description focusesprimarily upon structure and features that are different than theembodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 1-47. Referenceshould be made to the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-47for additional information regarding the structure and features, andpossible alternatives to the structure and features of the bracket 420illustrated in FIGS. 48 and 49 and described below. Features andelements in the embodiment of FIGS. 48 and 49 corresponding to featuresand elements in the embodiments described above in connection with ofFIGS. 1-47 are numbered in the 400 series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 48 and 49 illustrate a bracket 420 similar to the bracket 20Ashown in FIGS. 13A and 14A. The bracket 420 further includes a flexiblemembrane 490 coupled thereto adjacent aperture 466. The aperture 466 canbe sized to receive the flexible membrane 490 in a first apertureportion 466 a, that has a diameter substantially equal to a diameter ofthe flexible membrane 490. The aperture 466 can further include a secondaperture portion 466 b that is substantially tapered or frustoconicaland has first and second diameters, both of which are less than themembrane diameter.

The flexible membrane 490 can be permanently or removably coupled to thebracket 420. The flexible membrane 490 can be affixed to the bracket 420by a suitable adhesive. In some embodiments, a protective sheet or“sticker” is affixed to the flexible membrane 490 to protect themembrane 490 during manufacturing and shipping. The sticker is thenremoved from the membrane 490 prior to installation. The flexiblemembrane 490 can comprise a polymer, rubber, plastic or other suitableelastomeric material.

The bracket 420 can be coupled to any of the above-described flashing16, 116, 216 or 316 or any other suitable flashing. The aperture 466 issized to receive at least one of a projection and a seal, such as any ofthe projections and seals described herein. The flexible membrane 490can deform around a projection without rupturing or cracking. In someembodiments, the flexible membrane 490 is used in place of a sealbecause the flexible membrane 490 sufficiently seals the aperture 466. Afastener, such as any of the fasteners illustrated and described hereincan be inserted into the flexible membrane 490 to form an aperture inthe flexible membrane 490. The flexible membrane 490 is operable tosubstantially retain its shape and resist further tearing or ripping.The flexible membrane 490 can closely adhere to the fastener tosubstantially seal the aperture 466. In embodiments that utilizebrackets like 120 or 120A, a flexible membrane can be coupled to thebracket adjacent each aperture, whereas in other embodiments, a singleflexible membrane can be coupled to the bracket covering both apertures.

FIGS. 50 and 51 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 510according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems described above in connection with FIGS. 1-49.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-49. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-49 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 510 illustrated in FIGS. 50 and 51and described below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 50and 51 corresponding to features and elements in the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with of FIGS. 1-49 are numbered in the 500series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 50 and 51 illustrate another roofing system 510 including flashing516, a bracket 520, a fastener 522, and a compression washer 572. Insome embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 50 and 51,the flashing 516 is formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material andincludes a first projection 530 similar to the previously-describedprojections 30, 130, 230, and 330. In other embodiments, the flashing516 can be elastic or membranous, or alternatively, rigid or semi-rigidflashing can be supplemented with a flexible membrane. The flexiblemembrane can be similar to the flexible membrane 490 or can extend oversubstantially the entire surface area of the flashing 516. The flexiblemembrane can comprise a polymer, rubber, plastic or other similarmaterial.

In embodiments in which the flexible membrane replaces the flashing 516,the projections 530 and 592 need not be formed into the flexiblemembrane. Rather, the flexible membrane can stretch and conform to thebase 594 to include projections similar in shape and size to projections530 and 592.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 50 and 51, the flashing 516further includes a second projection 592 that extends in substantiallythe same direction as the first projection 530. The second projection592 can be substantially circular, as illustrated, or can be ovular,square, rectangular, triangular, or other regular or non-regular shape.The second projection 592 is sized to at least partially receive orengage a rigid base 594 between the flashing 516 and a roof substrate.In embodiments in which the flashing 516 can be elastic or membranous,the first and/or second projections 530, 592 can be formed when theflashing 516 is draped across the base 594.

The illustrated base 594 is substantially circular, but can be ovular,square, rectangular, triangular or other regular or non-regular shapes.The geometry of the base 594 can correspond with the geometry of thesecond projection 592, or as mentioned above, can cause the flashing 516to be formed around the contours of the base 594 such that the flashing516 matingly engages the base 594.

The base 594 can include at least one tooth 596 depending downwardlytherefrom. The illustrated base 594 includes three teeth 596 extendingaway from the flashing 516. The teeth 596 can bear against or grip aroof substrate to inhibit movement of the flashing 516 with respect tothe roof substrate. In some embodiments, a user can press, push or poundthe base 594 against the roof substrate, such as with a hammer. The base594 retains the flashing 516 against the roof substrate to limit oreliminate gaps created by movement of the flashing 516 relative to theroof, roof substrate, and the like. The base 594 further permits thefastener 522 to be tightened against the flashing 516 and the bracket520 without denting, deforming or damaging the flashing 516.

The illustrated base 594 further includes an aperture 598 and aprojection 500 through which the aperture 598 extends. The illustratedaperture 598 and projection 500 are substantially centered on the base594. The aperture 598 is sized to receive the fastener 522 and can bethe same size or a similar size as aperture 532. The illustratedprojection 500 extends into the space provided by the projection 530,and substantially mates with the projection 530, such that projections530 and 500 extend together. The projections 530 and 500 work togetherto inhibit relative movement of the flashing 516 with respect to theroof.

The illustrated bracket 520 is substantially L-shaped and includes anelongate body portion 552 and a first flange 558. The illustratedelongate body portion 552 includes an aperture 569 that is sized toreceive a fastener to support at least one of a snow guard, a snowfence, a solar panel, an antenna, a sign, and a billboard, or relatedcomponents. The illustrated first flange 558 includes a tapered aperture566 that is sized to at least partially receive the first projection 530and the washer projection 500. The tapered aperture 566 is also sized toreceive the fastener 522 therethrough.

In the illustrated embodiment, the compression washer 572 includes awasher and a seal, such as an o-ring. The fastener 522 has a head thatbear against the washer and the washer bears against the o-ring toprovide a resilient seal between the fastener head and the bracket 520.

The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures arepresented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitationupon the concepts and principles of the present invention. As such, itwill be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that variouschanges in the elements and their configuration and arrangement arepossible without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 52 and 53 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 610according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems described above in connection with FIGS. 1-51.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-51. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-51 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 610 illustrated in FIGS. 52 and 53and described below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 52and 53 corresponding to features and elements in the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with of FIGS. 1-51 are numbered in the 600series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 52 and 53 illustrate a roofing system 610 that includes a piece offlashing 616 defining an aperture 632 therethrough. The flashingaperture 632 defines a diameter d19 in FIG. 52 and diameter d20 in FIG.53. The diameter d19 of FIG. 52 is greater than the diameter d20 of FIG.53. In some embodiments, the flashing 616 can include a projectiondefining a substantially frustoconical shape, similar to the projectionsdescribed above. The roofing system 610 further includes a roof bracket620, which can include any of the previously-illustrated and describedbrackets. The illustrated bracket 620 is only partially shown, to moreclearly illustrate the details of the engagement between the bracket 620and the flashing 616. The illustrated bracket 620 includes an aperture671 extending through the bracket 620 and having a substantiallyfrustoconical shape.

The roofing system 610 also includes a seal 618 having a generallyfrustoconical shape and defining an aperture 648 extending therethrough.The seal 618 has a first narrow end 641 that defines a narrow sealdiameter d21 and a second wide end 643 that defines a wide seal diameterd22. The narrow seal diameter d21 is less than the wide seal diameterd22. The first narrow end is spaced from the roof surface and the secondwide end is proximate to or adjacent to the roof surface.

The roofing system 610 further includes at least one fastener, such asthe illustrated fastener 622. The fastener 622 can be any threaded orunthreaded fastener suitable to retain the roofing system 610 on a roof.The fastener 622 extends through the flashing aperture 632, the sealaperture 648, and the bracket aperture 671. The fastener 622 has afastener diameter d23, that is less than the flashing diameter d19 ofFIG. 52 and is less than or substantially equal to the flashing diameterd20 of FIG. 53. The diameter of the fastener 622 is less than orsubstantially equal to the narrow seal diameter d21 and is less than thewide seal diameter d22. The seal aperture 648 can be sized to receivethe fastener 622 and to optionally form a substantially water-tight sealwith the fastener 622.

The roofing system 610 can further include a washer 672, as illustratedin FIG. 53. The washer 672 can be included in the embodiment of FIG. 52,or could be omitted from the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 53. Thewasher 672 can be a polymeric compression washer to provide asubstantially water-tight seal between the fastener 622 and the bracketaperture 671. In some embodiments, the washer 672 can be omitted or canbe replaced by an o-ring or an applied sealant, such as caulk.Alternatively or in addition, the washer 672 can include a stiffeningelement, such as, for example, a rigid backing, to provide additionalsupport. The washer 672 can have an aperture that defines an diameterthat is larger than or substantially equal to the diameter of thefastener 622.

FIG. 53 illustrates possible leak points of the roofing system 610. Afirst possible leak point A is between the head of the fastener 622 andthe washer 672. A second possible leak point B is between the washer 672and the bracket 620. A third possible leak point C is between thebracket 620 and the flashing 616. The washer 672, the fastener 622, thebracket 620 and the seal 618 work together to substantially inhibit orprevent flow of fluid through first and second leak points A, B. Thebracket 620, the seal 618 and the flashing 616 work together tosubstantially inhibit or prevent flow of fluid through the third leakpoint C.

The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures arepresented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitationupon the concepts and principles of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A roof mount assembly for mounting a solar panelabove a roof surface, the roof mount assembly comprising: a roofsubstrate; a flashing positionable on the roof substrate, the flashinghaving an aperture; a fastener extending through the flashing apertureinto the roof substrate; a bracket including a first portion having afirst aperture and a second portion having a second aperture, the firstaperture sized to receive the fastener therethrough such that thefastener is operable to retain the bracket above the roof substrate, thesecond aperture is operable to support the solar panel above the roofsurface; a washer positioned on the bracket between the fastener and thebracket; a seal secured to and extending radially outwardly from thefastener radially beyond an outer perimeter of the aperture defined inthe flashing, the seal holding the flashing in compression against theroof substrate to inhibit fluid entry between the seal and the flashingadjacent the fastener, wherein the seal includes an elastomeric materialpositioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener.
 2. The roofmount assembly of claim 1, wherein the flashing is metallic and definesa frustoconical protrusion proximate the flashing aperture.
 3. The roofmount assembly of claim 1, wherein the bracket is spaced a distanceabove the flashing.
 4. A method of mounting a roof mount assembly and asolar panel to a roof, the method comprising: positioning a flashing onthe roof; inserting a fastener through a flashing aperture and into theroof; positioning a bracket above the flashing and the roof; insertingthe fastener through a bracket aperture; compressing the flashingagainst the roof; forming a seal between the fastener and at least oneof the flashing and the bracket; inserting a seal into the flashingaperture; inhibiting fluid flow through the flashing aperture with theseal in the flashing aperture; further inhibiting fluid flow into theroof around the fastener; supporting the bracket above the roof;mounting the solar panel to the bracket; and supporting the solar panelabove the roof surface with the bracket and the fastener.
 5. The methodof claim 4, further comprising inhibiting fluid flow through the bracketaperture.
 6. The method of claim 4, further comprising overlapping theflashing aperture with a washer.
 7. The method of claim 4, furthercomprising spacing the bracket a distance above the flashing and theroof.
 8. A roof mount assembly for mounting a solar panel above a roofsurface, the roof mount assembly comprising: a roof substrate; anelastomeric membrane positionable on the roof substrate; a fastenersized to extend through the elastomeric membrane, such that a firstportion of the fastener extends into the roof substrate and a secondportion of the fastener extends upward away from the roof substrate,wherein the elastomeric membrane substantially seals the opening in theroof substrate caused by the fastener; a bracket having an aperturethrough which the second portion of the fastener extends, wherein thefastener supports the bracket above the roof substrate by the fastener,wherein the bracket is positioned a distance above the roof substrateand the elastomeric membrane; and a solar panel coupled to the bracketand supported above the roof substrate by the bracket, wherein thebracket aperture is substantially frustoconical and the elastomericmembrane is deformable to conform to at least a portion of thesubstantially frustoconical bracket aperture.
 9. The roof mount assemblyof claim 8, further comprising a member positioned on one of the roofsubstrate and the elastomeric membrane and having a first surface areafacing the roof, wherein the opening in the roof substrate caused by thefastener has a second surface area, and wherein the second surface areais greater than the first surface area, such that the member at leastpartially seals the opening in the roof substrate caused by thefastener.
 10. A roof mount assembly for mounting a solar panel above aroof surface, the roof mount assembly comprising: a roof substrate; aflashing positionable on the roof substrate, the flashing defining anaperture; a fastener extending through the flashing aperture and into anopening in the roof substrate; a bracket having an aperture, theaperture sized to receive the fastener therethrough, the bracket coupledto the roof substrate and spaced a distance above the flashing; a firstwasher between the flashing and the fastener, the first washer operableto inhibit flow of water through the flashing aperture, wherein thefirst washer defines a first diameter and the opening in the roofdefines a second diameter, and wherein the first diameter is greaterthan the second diameter; and a second washer positioned between thefastener and the bracket, the second washer operable to fixedly couplethe fastener and the bracket.
 11. The roof mount assembly of claim 10,wherein the first washer is elastomeric and the flashing is metallic.12. The roof mount assembly of claim 10, wherein the bracket aperturehas a substantially frustoconical shape.